Sony also reached out to Joystiq with a statement saying, "We are aware of reports that the recent PlayStation 3 system software update (version 4.45) has caused the XMB to not display on a small number of PS3 systems. We have temporarily taken 4.45 offline and are investigating the cause of the problem. We will announce when the system update is available for download as soon as possible. We apologise for the inconvenience."

Original story:

For the time being, it's probably a good idea to decline the latest system update for the PlayStation 3. Many users are reporting bricked consoles after updating.

Not all users are encountering problems after updating, but if Sony's official message boards are any indication of how widespread the issue is, it certainly couldn't hurt to wait.

We'll make sure to update this story when Sony responds or makes a suggestion about what to do.

(*facepalm*) I pray that this isn't any indication of how the PS4's early patches are gonna be. Any kind of technical failings that Sony bring to the table at launch is the only thing that could kill their edge over X-Box One. A shame to see that happen given their game title edge.

(*facepalm*) I pray that this isn't any indication of how the PS4's early patches are gonna be. Any kind of technical failings that Sony bring to the table at launch is the only thing that could kill their edge over X-Box One. A shame to see that happen given their game title edge.

Well luckily I rarely update my system unless forced to and since I've been online all day and haven't been booted offline to update,I dodged a bullet. But I always research these updates before downloading them anyway. Sony did take the update down not long ago though. Best of luck going to those who are having the issues. That just hurts.